The continent is one of the largest in the world after Asia and Africa. Divided into two parts namely north America and south America, it is home to the richest and most developed countries in the globe such as the US, Canada, Mexico, Argentina, and Spain, amongst others. Filled with numerous job opportunities and a stable standard of living, it is no surprise that it is flocked by expatriates looking for greener pastures. The major industries, which contribute to the economy of American countries, include IT, manufacturing, construction, production, logistics, etc. A hub for commerce and a major influencer of the global market, the continent offers foreign investors and small businesses a place to grow. Job-hunting is not easy as an expat anywhere in the world but thanks to its friendly policies, it is simpler here, as foreigners are always welcome at its shore. Despite the large population, difficulty in getting a visa, and other regulations, there are quite a several job openings for foreigners looking to work in any of its countries. However, skill and qualification matter a lot when it comes to working abroad.
For an expat interested in working here or one considering relocating to any country on this continent, this article provides information on finding work in America as a foreigner.
Types of jobs available to expats
Aside from the typical full-time work setting, there are other forms of work setting such as remote, freelancing, part-time, internships, hybrid, etc. The jobs available for expats here range from professional work to short-term work like summer jobs.
Finding work as a foreigner
There are various types of work available to expatriates residing in or out of this territory. The common ways of job hunting amongst expats are surfing LinkedIn for job adverts, searching recruitment websites such as infojobs, indeed, we-expats, etc., joining job groups on Facebook, reading the job sections in local newspapers, et cetera. An expat can apply for jobs, that satisfy the requirement and are skilled to handle. Aside from these methods, foreigners can also find openings via networking; this is through family and friends or close associates working in companies of interest. You can also reach out to native recruiters in international companies via social media to find out about recruitment in their organizations. When looking for employment, foreigners should know that these openings are mainly for highly skilled persons who have experience in their field of interest.
Work requirements for expats
Regardless of which part of the continent one wishes to work in, the requirements are mostly the same with slight differences. It is true that American companies mostly hire skilled people. However, there are still jobs available to less experienced people in the hospitality, mining, construction, and other industries. They are mostly short-term and pay less depending on the country of employment.
Language skill
An expat must try to be fluent in speaking English and any of the native languages spoken by the locals. This allows for better communication with people and gives applicants a higher chance of getting a job. Most times in non-English speaking countries here, expats from native English-speaking countries are hired to teach English in local schools across the country.
Work visa and permit
After landing a job, an expat relocating here has to apply for a work visa at an embassy in their home country to allow him or her entry into the country of employment. This visa is usually issued by the embassy for the duration of the work contract. A work permit is given to foreigners who have gained employment; it allows them to work in the country.
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